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Tuesday, September 8, 2009

The Curious Case of Scott Richmond

It's something that we've become all too accustomed with this year with Scott Richmond. For whatever reason, Scotty often runs into trouble early in the game. Today's start was another prime example of that - he was roughed up early in the game for five runs but managed to settle down for the remainder of his start.

For weeks, I've struggled to find out why Richmond has so much trouble within the first few innings of his starts. While I don't have an explanation for why it happens, the truth remains that Scott Richmond's ERA is much higher through the first three innings of his starts than from the fourth inning onward.

Game Progess

ERA

Total Earned Runs

First 3 Innings

6.27

39

4th Inning Onward

3.88

25

During the first three innings of Richmond's starts, his ERA is 6.27. But once he settles down, his ERA from the fourth inning and onward drops down to 3.88. I don't know whether it's early-inning jitters or maybe it could be because Scott doesn't really get warmed up for a few innings.

The only other explanation I can provide is that maybe Richmond's fastball picks up velocity in later innings or his slider breaks more as the game progresses.

Until I can find more concrete evidence, the Curious Case of Scott Richmond will remain unsolved.

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About the Blue Jay Hunter

The Blue Jay Hunter is a blog about the Toronto Blue Jays, which takes a look at the team under the microscope. Mixed in with just a hint of humour, and a shred of dignity. I also have an affinity for baseball moustaches.